Businesses team up to tackle discrimination against new mothers

Leading businesses are forming a new alliance to tackle pregnancy and maternity discrimination, which affects about 390,000 pregnant women and new mothers each year.

Among those forming a coalition are Barclays, Royal Mail and BT Group.

The initiative is aimed at eradicating discrimination from their businesses and making the best use of their female workforce.

David Isaac, chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, said: "We are calling on employers to sign up to our initiative to commit to delivering equality and ensure working environments benefit everyone."

The companies involved in the coalition will also encourage businesses in their supply chains to pledge to make their workplaces the best they can be for pregnant women and new mothers.

Along with as sharing their knowledge, experience and good practice with businesses signing up to the pledge, they will also aim to highlight the economic benefits they get from retaining the talent and experience of their female employees.

"Attracting, developing and retaining talent, regardless of gender, is absolutely critical for the UK economy and for our businesses," Me Isaac continued. "Companies that show a real commitment to this are not only doing the right thing but can also gain a competitive edge."

Business Minister Margot James said: "I'm extremely encouraged that some of the UK's largest businesses have committed to the EHRC's new campaign and I urge other employers, large and small, to add their support."

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